Social Justice Committee

“Educate, Advocate, Act, Reflect”

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister has nothing to wear and has no food for the day, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, keep warm, and eat well,” but you do not give them the necessities of the body, what good is it?So also faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

– James 2:14-17

The Social Justice Committee of St. Clare Parish serves as a parish resource and catalyst for the work of social justice. We seek to Educate, Advocate, Act, Reflect.

– Educate the community about Catholic social teachings.

– Advocate for the dignity and rights of all people, especially those who are marginalized and socially, politically or economically disadvantaged.

– Act out our faith by creating and participating in opportunities – individually and in community – to implement the Catholic social teachings of justice in service to others in need.

– Reflect on the biblical and theological foundations of Catholic social teachings to help inform and discern current and future actions, advocacy and education efforts.

Since its founding in 2009, the Social Justice Committee has hosted the annual Fair Trade sale, Immigration Awareness Weekends, education efforts during Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Grateful Garment Drive, Stations of the Cross for global solidarity, and advocacy for the Catholic Climate Covenant and the St. Francis Pledge. Efforts to mobilize support for the homeless in collaboration with diocese, interfaith groups and public agencies are under way.

We continue to deepen our connections within the parish and expand our reach in service to the community. We welcome new ideas and new members to join us in our work. The committee meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm in the Rectory. For information or to join the committee, contact Anne McMahon at mcmahonam@sbcglobal.net.